We want to give every participant motivation along the way and also remind them how their hard work is helping children – more than 1 million served by the hospital every year.

That’s why we’re seeking “patient champions” – 26 to be exact- to serve as ambassadors along each mile of the route. Champions will share their stories with participants and also have a “rally station” along their mile to cheer runners and walkers.

So what does it take to be a patient champion? Two simple things: a willingness to share your story and participate on race day. We’re hoping each mile will have its own special theme and surprises based on the story and “favorites” of each patient champion. We’re already getting wonderful submissions from families with amazing stories and great “rally station” ideas.

We will also have opportunities for patient champions to be involved in many other aspects of the race so we’d love to hear from you! In addition, the last .2 mile of the marathon course will be dedicated to every single child that has been and is currently being treated at Nationwide Children’s – the “Rally Alley.” Photos of patient champions will be displayed in the Rally Alley; the perfect way to provide that last ounce of encouragement participants will need to cross the finish line.

Related Posts

Donna Teach is Chief Marketing & Communication Officer at Nationwide Children's. Her job is to help the hospital feel "connected" – Connected to each other, connected to our patients and their families, referring physicians, the community and the world.